This month, we are working on Block 3 (page 29 in the Quilter’s Planner Magazine). Block 3 uses colored and background squares and rectangles to create a checkered design.

For our Block 3, we used the following feature fabrics by Alison Glass for Andover: Kraken in Urchin from Diving Board and Depths in Honey from Sun Print 2018.

We’re back to basics with this straightforward block comprised of sewing squares and rectangles together, so this is a great opportunity to focus on accurate cutting and sewing using the scant ¼” seam allowance.

QP Insider Tip #1:

This tip isn’t specific to this block (or even this project), but it is worthwhile and especially useful for projects that are longer term. After your block is finished, stitch around the perimeter of the entire block approximately ⅛” from the edge (it doesn’t have to be exactly ⅛”, just make sure it’s completely within your seam allowance). I recommend doing this with the seams facing up so that you can make sure that they don’t flip over. There are several reasons for doing this:

It really locks your seams. If you’ve ever seen the the last stitch or two on the edge of your block start to separate (especially if it was chain pieced), edge stitching will hold those seams together. It also helps to hold your seam allowances in place. If you’re ever had a seam allowance flip over when you’re sewing, you’ll probably know exactly what I’m talking about.

It will stop the fraying at the edges. I’m sure we have all seen the edge of a cut piece of woven fabric where the it looks like a thread or two has come off. It happens even on extremely high quality and densely woven fabrics, especially if it’s something that gets handled regularly. When I have a project, especially something like a Block of the Month, I like to be able to pull out all of my blocks and look at them together which means more picking them up and moving them around. Even if you are gentle with your handling, the fabric still shifts and more bits of thread are prone to unraveling.

This is also especially handy if you have a block with a bias edge because the stitching will keep the fabric from stretching along the edge.

As a side note, this works great on quilt tops too.

QP Insider Tip #2:

If you’ve chosen to follow the Modern Bliss layout, there is only 1 version of Block 3 in the quilt pictured on the cover of the magazine (the middle block on row 6). Also, don’t forget that the Modern Bliss layout uses blocks set on point (rotated 45 degrees), so that may be something to consider when selecting fabrics.

QP Insider Tip #3:

After you cut your pieces some of the piece dimensions are similar, so label your cut pieces with sticky notes, and check to make sure that they are oriented properly when you sew your pieces together!

QP Insider Tip #4:

This is a great block to use glue basting instead of pins, if you like that method, and to spin your seams! Keep an eye out on our Youtube channel about how to spin your seams to get a nice, flat block

If you’re sewing along with us and entering your blocks on Facebook or Instagram to be eligible to win our monthly prize, here is a reminder for the guidelines.

Between the 1st and the 7th day of each month, you’ll find the pattern for that month’s block and select your fabrics.

Between the 8th and the 14th, you’ll get your fabrics prepped and cut.

Between the 15th and the end of the month, sew up your block and post it to Instagram (please tag @thequiltersplanner and use the #QP2018sewalong hashtag) and/or to the Facebook Group (using the same #QP2018sewalong hashtag). We will have prizes for both, but you are only eligible to win the monthly prize once.

Rules for for Entering your Sewn Blocks to Win Prizes Online:

When you post a photo of your block on Instagram or in our Facebook group by each deadline set for the month (usually the first of the next month), you’ll be entered into a drawing for some great prizes from our sponsors: Andover Fabrics, Aurifil, OLFA, and the Quilter’s Planner.

Each month’s entry must be posted by 12:01 am Central Time to be eligible.

You MUST tag @thequiltersplanner on IG or post your block in our Facebook group with your entry and use the hashtag #QP2018sewalong (please be sure to use the hashtag on Instagram AND Facebook) so we can track your entry.

If you win one month’s prize, you will be eligible to win again at 6 months and 12 months, if you complete and enter each month’s block on time.

Some prizes may not be available for participants outside the US due to shipping costs. Winners will be contacted via social media and asked to provide an email address and shipping address.

If a prize alternative is required, it will be sent via email.

If you do not receive your prize within one month, please contact us at hello@quiltersplanner.com so we can contact prize sponsors and help coordinate a new shipment.

These contests are not affiliated with Instagram or Facebook in any way.

General Tips for Sewing the 2018 QP Block of the Month Pattern:

Fabric requirements are listed for the whole project on p. 26 of the pattern magazine. They are also listed per block, if you do not plan to sew the entire sampler.

Along the way, we will provide you with tips and tricks on Instagram, in our Facebook group, and via email for success and to answer your questions as they arise.

If you’re worried about missing Sew Along dates, we’ve got you covered – reminders will be posted on Instagram, on our Facebook page, and in our Facebook group as we move through the different phases of the Sew Along.

While these aren’t required, 3½” and 4½” square rulers may speed up the process of trimming and squaring your blocks. If not, there’s no need to worry. Many quilting rulers have 45 degree lines printed on them. These handy lines are great for helping you to align your seams.

Happy Sewing! Please contact us on Instagram or in our Facebook group and tag us if you get stuck or have questions!